In July, 2005 The Wall Street Journal reported that a study done by economists proved moderate alcohol drinkers earn more than Teetotalers. People who drink a couple of glasses of beer or wine after work, or with dinner, earn up to 25 % more than the non-drinkers with the same education, age and other characteristics. It is clear to the economists that drinking and prosperity are related, but the actual reasons why are unclear.

Possible reasons that spring into mind are (1) the health benefits of the drinkers, which makes them more productive, and (2) alcohol is a social lubricant, which makes the drinkers better, more open communicators when it comes to relating to other people, be it vendors, customers, bosses, employees, family, etc. One aspect of the study that supports this more open attitude of drinkers is that drinkers also give more to charity than the Teetotalers, even when the studied persons have the same religion, income, and education.

I drink to that: another good reason to have a beer!
Newsletter October / Novamber / December 2005